MCC receives $2.25 million gift for scholarships

Monroe Community College has received the largest gift in its history, a $2.25 million donation from a pair of alumni. The donation will provide full scholarships to 40 students each year.

The gift was given by alumni Robin and Timothy Wentworth, establishing the Wentworth Family Scholarship Program. The endowed fund will give students the chance to start their education, MCC officials said Thursday.

“Tim and I hope this scholarship empowers students who can someday help others in a similar fashion,” said Robin Wentworth, who earned an associate's degree from MCC in 1980.

The Wentworths were both the first in their families to attend college. After graduating from MCC, Timothy transferred to Cornell University to study business administration, and now has a career in the pharmaceuticals industry.

“Robin and I didn’t have the choice not to engage if we wanted a better life,” said Timothy Wentworth. “MCC was our chance. Our chance to transfer to a four-year school. Our chance to have a career."

Anne Kress, MCC president, said the gift will create the same opportunities for a new generation of students.

“Through their remarkable and visionary commitment to MCC, Robin and Tim Wentworth have enabled our students to set their educational goals and expectations higher—to pursue their dreams, complete their degrees, and, most importantly, chart futures as valued professionals and community leaders,” Kress said. “We thank them for their historic gift and for inspiring others to keep their connection to MCC and our community strong.”

The Wentworths have given to MCC in the past. In 2009, they established a scholarship fund for business and music majors, and also donated a Steinway piano for students to learn and practice composition.

In recognition of their gifts, the Wentworths will receive the MCC Foundation's Salute to Excellence Award on Thursday.